Religious Dimensions
St Roch's Parish Primary School 
A Prayer to St Roch
Dear God,
Thank You for this special Year of Hope. You remind us that we are never alone, and that Your love gives us courage and strength.
Thank You for the example of St Roch. He helped the sick and cared for others, even when he was tired or unwell. He showed hope, kindness, and trust in You.
Please help us to follow St Roch’s example. Help us to be kind, brave, and caring. Show us how to bring hope to others— at school, at home, and in our world.
We know You are always with us.
Amen.
Year 6 Confirmation: Family Night and Mass
Recently, our Year 6 families joined with Parish families at the ‘Confirmation Family Information Night’. Father Gallacher reminded us of the purpose of the Sacraments and what God asks of us as confirmed people. Families also explored the ‘gifts of the Holy Spirit’ and enjoyed discussions that asked them to identify the gifts that they see in each other in their daily lives. The students have commenced the program in the classroom/parish and we also look forward to the final Confirmation at St Patrick’s Cathedral as part of the Jubilee Year celebrations.
On Sunday, all families joined together at our ‘Commitment’ Mass. The students read out a ‘commitment prayer’ to all parishioners and received a blessing from Father Gallacher as well. It was great to see a ‘very full house’ of Confirmation Candidates!
A special thank you to Father Gallacher and the Confirmation team consisting of Jess Mount, Angie Mastoras, Nadine Bolton and Toni Allen.
The Feast of St Roch:
Last Friday was a very special day on our school calendar, as we joined together a day early to reflect, pray and celebrate the life of St Roch.
As St Roch is the Patron Saint of Dogs, families were invited to bring their pet dog to our morning greeting and Father Gallacher blessed these pets as part of God’s creation. We were reminded of how important all animals are in our lives and how we need to treat all animals with love and care.
After enjoying some St Roch activities in the classroom, we had lots of fun at the ‘Kaboom’ incursion! This was a chance to enjoy different activities in multi-level groups and celebrate being a part of St Roch’s School! Students found it ‘exciting', 'fun' and 'a great way to celebrate our school!' A special thank you to our Year 6 leaders again for leading the groups and helping everyone to have a great experience!
The school came together again to pray at our Whole School Liturgy. Special thanks to Father Gallacher and our Year 6 leaders; Lachie Dodd, Grace Burke and Michael Borromeo for supporting this. Happy St Roch's Feast Day!
Prep Family Mass
Last night the Preps and their families came together to celebrate 5.00pm Mass with Father Tom. It was a lovely way to prayerfully connect and then they enjoyed a delicious supper together afterwards.
Term 3 Events to Note:
- Year Prep Family Mass: Sunday 31st August @ 5.00pm - bring a plate to share!
- Year 5 'Retreat in the City': Friday 5th September
- Year 5/6 Mini Vinnies support the ‘Malvern Emergency Food Program’.
Term 4: Year 6 Confirmation dates
- Year 6 Retreat Day: to be confirmed
Year 6 Confirmation at St Patrick's Cathedral: Thursday 30 October @ 6.00pm
Louise Bolton
Religious Dimension Leader